Job Abstract

Application Instructions

Please list all professional experience and explain any gaps in employment history. All of your application materials, which may include PDF files of work samples and/or links to audio, video, photography or graphics, must be uploaded to the field labeled Resume/Cover Letter/Work Samples to be considered for the position.

Job Description

The Washington Post is seeking an experienced SEO editor to bolster efforts to reach audiences through search. This editor will be responsible for identifying coverage opportunities and optimizing content across a range of topics. 

The SEO editor must be comfortable in a fast-paced newsroom and able to move quickly to identify insights from metrics, including operationalizing them into savvy search tactics that continually redefine our strategy. The ideal candidate will be able to pivot quickly to seize opportunities around breaking news and live moments. They should be comfortable evangelizing for search-first journalism in the newsroom, while also able to talk technical requirements with engineers. 

Responsibilities: 

• Pitch story ideas targeting daily trends, tentpole events and coverage areas to reach new and existing audiences on search platforms. 

• Optimize content and monitor real-time performance for high-priority topics, including alerting editors in the newsroom to won and lost ranking. 

• Partner with newsroom teams on live coverage and provide real-time support for major breaking news. 

• Train editors and reporters on SEO best practices and partner with editorial teams to guide content strategy.  

• Provide competitive analysis on search performance to newsroom stakeholders.?  

• Work with technical and product partners to identify and improve tools to facilitate the creation of search-first content.  

Please consider applying if you meet most of these requirements: 

• At least 5 years of SEO, audience or digital journalism experience. 

• A passion for keeping up with SEO best practices and industry changes.  

• Experience using Google Search Console and other industry-leading SEO tools such as Semrush or Ahrefs. 

• Familiarity with technical SEO, including best practices around website structure and navigation, sitemaps and schema markup. 

• A collaborative mindset and demonstrated ability to work with reporters and editors.  

• Expertise in using analytics to make real-time and long-term strategic decisions.  

• Exceptional organizational abilities and strong communication skills.  

This position is based in our Washington newsroom and could involve night and weekend work. 

Candidates should upload a résumé and cover letter outlining their experience to our jobs portal. All application materials can be uploaded to the same field. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by April 15 will be prioritized. Your cover letter should be addressed to SEO Assignment Editor Candace Mitchell, Deputy Head of Audience Strategy Bryan Flaherty and Head of Audience Strategy Erika Allen. 

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage

• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match

• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave

• Nine paid holidays and two personal days

• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent

• Robust mental health resources

• Backup care and caregiver concierge services

• Gender affirming services

• Pet insurance

• Free Post digital subscription

• Leadership and career development programs

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed. 

Ever wondered if what you are doing will Impact Tomorrow? At The Washington Post, every employee shapes the way we deliver the news. Find the career that’s right for you

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